Today I discussed the Biologic Response of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells to various PRP (platelet rich plasma) preps at the AAOM conference. PRP has received signficant attention in the treatment of musculoskeletal and orthopedic injuries. At the Centeno-Schultz Clinicadvanced platelet rich therapies are available for the treatment of common orthopedic conditions.

A previous blog (dirty little machine) outlined the problems associated with standard bedside centrifuge systems. Specifically the PRP is contaminated with RBC’s which can led to a number of issues including inflammation as evidenced by signficant postprocedure swelling. In contrast, Regenexx PL and SCPboth of which are created by a cell biologist are free of RBC’s.

Are there other differences?

YES.

The is a striking difference in the ability of different PRP concentrates to grow human mesenchymal stem cells. PRP concentrates with RBC’s were compared with Regenexx PL and SCP in their ability to grow human mesenchymal stem cells in culture. Both Regenexx PL and SCPare free of RBC contamination.

The results.

There was no growth of stem cells with bedside centrifuge PRP preps that contained RBC’s. In contrast Regenexx PL and SCPdemonstrated signficant stem cell growth.

The picture tells the story.

After 6 days in culture there was mesenchymal stem cell growth as reflected by the presence of colonies (MCU) in PRP preps that contained no RBC’s. This is seen in top and bottom pictures on left. In contrast there was no growth the PRP prep that contained RBCs as seen in upper right hand picture.

The presence of RBC’s in platelet concentrates make a difference. As a patients or provider choose wisely.